2009 Honda Pilot

The previous-generation Pilot earned five-star ratings all around in NHTSA crash-testing, for both frontal and side impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made it a "Top Safety Pick." Comparable ratings are expected for the 2009 Pilot.


Front-wheel drive is standard, but Pilots are available with a VTM-4 all-wheel-drive system, which Honda describes as "decision-free four-wheel drive." A dashboard switch can lock in a 50/50 (front/rear) power split on all-wheel-drive models.

Trim Levels & Features

Four versions are offered: base LX, EX, EX-L (with leather-trimmed seating surfaces and a moonroof), and a new Touring model with a power tailgate and navigation system. Bluetooth Hands Free Link is standard on the Touring edition. Three rows of seats provide eight-passenger capacity on all models.


New features on the 2009 Pilot include a tailgate with a lift-up glass hatch, a standard integrated tow hitch, and Hill Start Assist. Occupants may appreciate the new humidity control system, and the driver faces a new tilt/telescopic steering column. The hood is now made of aluminum.


Vehicle Stability Assist, traction control, and antilock braking are standard. So are front side-impact airbags and three-row curtain airbags. Active Head Restraints for the driver and front passenger are new for 2009. Four lower anchors and tethers for child seats are installed (previously only two).